Dubai: AC Milan opens AC Milan International Academy in Dubai, in collaboration with Ball Beast Academy, a local startup that supports the development of projects promoting sports activities and empowerment for young footballers.
AC Milan is the most supported Italian club and ranks in the top 10 worldwide, with approximately 2.5 million passionate supporters in UAE. It first opened its academy 15 years ago in Kuwait and has since hosted over 5,000 boys and girls.
This strategic move marks a significant milestone in AC Milan's global expansion strategy guided by RedBird Capital Partners.. It is a testament to the club's unwavering commitment to the region marked by the inauguration of Casa Milan Dubai, the new Rossoneri headquarters in the Middle East, last November, and previously by the partnership with Expo 2020.
The collaboration doesn't stop there. AC Milan has joined forces with key partners in the MEA (Middle East & Africa) in regions, like Emirates, SIRO, and the CFI Financial Group, the club's Global Partner, who will be among the protagonists of this new venture.
Maikel Oettle, AC Milan's Chief Commercial Officer, expressed enthusiasm for the venture, stating, "The inauguration of a new Academy in Dubai reflects our club's ambition to deepen our ties with the Middle East. We're dedicated to sharing the Milan Model, nurturing young talent, and positively impacting local communities."
Meanwhile, Hassan Almeddine, General Manager of Ball Beast Academy LLC, emphasized the academy's commitment to fostering values of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship, offering tailored programs for girls in football and individuals with special needs.